tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-41324134159257156562014-10-04T19:57:22.109-07:00A Tiny Little Ripplejannzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04589564012978844513noreply@blogger.comBlogger46125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4132413415925715656.post-32422077923540886242011-05-31T17:05:00.000-07:002011-05-31T20:50:55.446-07:00One Key to Unlock the Door of Hospitality<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RbOywCCOJFo/TeV8WKBKp9I/AAAAAAAAAV4/S867OubMjfc/s1600/Hospitality+at+Home.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="226" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RbOywCCOJFo/TeV8WKBKp9I/AAAAAAAAAV4/S867OubMjfc/s320/Hospitality+at+Home.jpg" t8="true" width="320" /></a></div><br />My house is too small. They won't have a place to park. The carpets are always dirty. Sit on the floor? Are you kidding me? I can't cook. What if I run out of things to say......<br /><br /><br /><br />Why be hospitable? Do people even need your caring words or actions?<br /><br /><br /><br />Are people hurting today? Yes. Are they thriving or are they in survival mode? Do they have peace or are they in need of peace? Can you offer them a glass of water?<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yq_-fXhbLrk/TeWA6Db_x2I/AAAAAAAAAWE/r5RCEBmLnsU/s1600/Cool%2BDrink.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yq_-fXhbLrk/TeWA6Db_x2I/AAAAAAAAAWE/r5RCEBmLnsU/s320/Cool%2BDrink.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />I'm not known for my hospitality. My mother is a gracious person. I don't have any excuse.....except one. Perfection. I want things to be perfect. And they aren't......ever. My desire for perfection doesn't even come from wanting to please others as much as it comes from my own pride. Ugg. The ugly cards are out on the table now. <br /><br /><br /><br />Martha, just call me Martha.<br /><br /><br /><br />But when I consider those I think about hosting I know that they need ME. They need the love of Christ that I can share that day. They need a loving touch or a listening ear. They need to relax and have a moment away from the demands overwhelming their lives. They need a meal.....any meal. A friend recently got excited when I invited her to come over "one day soon." I told her I wasn't sure what I'd cook. She quickly responded, "Grilled cheese would be fine! I just want to come visit!" It really isn't my food she longs for, it's His food she knows she'll get!<br /><br /><br /><br />Another friend wants to come over. She has never been here but she likes some of the things that consume my time. She just wants to sit and be encouraged, she wants to take a deep breath and slow her pace. <br /><br /><br /><br />As I prepared for our wonderful fellowship yesterday with my Polish friend, Maria Rybarczyk, I knew that I wanted the focus to be on her, not the food. I bought some fruits, cubed some cheese and set out crackers. We made a delicious punch and had hot coffee and tea available. The table looked bare so I thought about buying a few pretty flowers but I didn't have a lot of time to run out and get them. As I walked into my kitchen I saw some (old....I'm being honest now) "silk" flowers in a vase. (I really feel like I'm using the term "silk" loosely.) At that moment I felt God say to me, "Jan, this isn't about perfection and you have only Me to please. Wash the old flowers, put them in a vase and set them on the table. This day isn't about your idea of beauty. It is about showing them My Love. Just love."<br /><br /><br /><br />The day was full of dark skies, strong winds, hard rain, impressive lightening and powerful thunder. The phone began ringing as two o'clock approached and I braced myself for regrets. Instead I had requests for: driving instructions, permission to bring a friend, and "Is there anything you'd like me to bring?" Everyone showed up and they were all on time! They brought smiles, umbrellas, diaper bags, excitment and anticipation. We all sat in my livingroom and compared our circle to what the early church must have been like huddled in the catacombs. What a wonderfully glorious day it was.<br /><br /><br /><br />They sat on the sofa, diningroom table chairs (that don't match the table and were bought from an old army kitchen), the floor....even the inexpensive folding chairs I bought to use outside! There was laughter, some tears, many hugs and prayers. We sang aloud a few songs that have guided and strenghtened Maria....and we sang them a capella. Talk about missing perfection. But I'm certain the angels were singing along too. <br /><br /><br /><br />My friends (from all walks of life and many not knowing anyone else before coming over), left refreshed. They looked more filled and complete than when they first walked in the door. They were built up and ready to "go forth." <br /><br /><br /><br />The kitchen was not as clean as I would have liked. A few prep things I had planned to do never got done. My little projects even sat in their places unashamed, waiting on me. It was obvious. She didn't get her whole "look" finished. <br /><br /><br /><br />But now I know. We weren't really going for "my look." We were going for His look. And since He is Perfection, what was I worried about after all?<br /><br /><br /><br />IF He is my Boss (and He is!), then I need only concern myself with the assignments He puts before me and they are never too much or too hard. <br /><br /><br /><br />My friends relax when I relax. And before I know it the meal is finished and they're drying dishes and putting them in my cupboards. (Never my intention or desire by the way!) But they smile and say, "Wow, we're a lot alike. I'd put my such-and-such here too if I were you." Then we're laughing and I'm understanding that they just want to be my family for the day. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dtA1jlO5F1k/TeWBVmDqAqI/AAAAAAAAAWM/vKP8C_ei2xE/s1600/Rest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="213" width="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dtA1jlO5F1k/TeWBVmDqAqI/AAAAAAAAAWM/vKP8C_ei2xE/s320/Rest.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />They got a lot more than nourishment at my table. They got loved. They felt cherished and listened to and the ride home is an easier one because they know I care about them and they have another sister looking out for them. The harsh world is a little less harsh because they felt loved and not with a love that is superficial....but with God's love, the Perfect love.<br /><br /><br /><br />"But when perfection comes, the imperfection disappears." 1 Corinthians 13:10<br /><br /><br /><br />"And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love." 1 Corinthians 13: 13<br /><br /><br /><br />Be the balm that is needed, the oasis that is desired, the friend that is loving and available. <br /><br /><br /><br />I am tossing the pride of my own need for perfection. My Boss expects obedience, not my simple plan of excellence. <br /><br /><br /><br />The world is in too much need to wait for us to finally get over ourselves. Set aside personal agendas and Love One Another! The time is nigh.<br /><br /><br /><br />Can I count on you?<br /><br /><br /><br />Can He count on you?<br /><br /><br /><br />Obediently,<br /><br /><br /><br />Jan aka The New Mary<br /><br /><br /><br /></div>jannzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04589564012978844513noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4132413415925715656.post-84838093083344993242011-01-12T19:27:00.000-08:002011-01-12T19:27:03.549-08:00Mom's Love RubMom's Love Rub, the healing and moisturizing lotion that treats so many things has a home.&nbsp; Read <em>The</em> <em>Story of Mom's Love Rub</em> at:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.momsloverub.com/">http://www.momsloverub.com/</a>jannzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04589564012978844513noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4132413415925715656.post-52011527717171978892010-04-25T14:03:00.000-07:002010-11-18T06:27:19.032-08:00Corn Cake aka CornbreadSome time back I was asked to talk about cornbread.&nbsp; The yummy deliciousness of my southern life.&nbsp; The crumbly, golden yellow bread that makes me smile throughout the whole meal.&nbsp; The butter soaking bread that sits at the edge of your plate, waiting to be noticed and appreciated.<br /><br />When I was a little girl my mother said that I called cornbread cake.&nbsp; What a smart girl I was.... &nbsp; This stuff can be so delightful that you'll want to call it cake and eat it for dessert but don't do it.&nbsp; Put it on the plate, let it sop up the gravy, break it up and put it on top of your beans and rice and <i>save room</i> for dessert.&nbsp; (Dessert is an event in itself!)<br /><br />But how to make it?&nbsp; And NOT use a boxed kit?&nbsp; Well lets see......Preheat your oven to 400 degrees and let the fun begin!<br /><br />Those of you who already know me know we'll be starting with the basics.&nbsp; Get out the corn.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S9SfBGP79iI/AAAAAAAAATM/2_6Fu3_x4MI/s1600/DSC_0611.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S9SfBGP79iI/AAAAAAAAATM/2_6Fu3_x4MI/s320/DSC_0611.JPG" /></a></div><br /><br />What?&nbsp; I see a look of concern on your face.&nbsp; You did know that cornbread was made with corn, right?&nbsp; Oh,&nbsp; not<i> that</i> corn?&nbsp; Bless your little heart, I bet you think chicken comes from the grocery store too, right?&nbsp; Well get out your cornmeal and jump in when you're ready.&nbsp; But I only thought it fair to show you the truest form of good ole' fashioned cornbread, Darlin'.<br /><br />Put it in the mill (if you have one) and make your cornmeal.&nbsp; If you don't have a mill but would really like some fresh-as-a-newborn-babe-cornmeal, then next time you come over for coffee, I'll send you home with a few cups.&nbsp; See how pretty that looks?<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S9SgA-F1eOI/AAAAAAAAATU/YEjyDcrHTHE/s1600/DSC_0612.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S9SgA-F1eOI/AAAAAAAAATU/YEjyDcrHTHE/s320/DSC_0612.JPG" /></a></div><br />You'll also need some regular flour and I like to use whole wheat flour.&nbsp; Only the best, you know.&nbsp; And yes, it gets milled too.&nbsp; <br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S9ShRGgMJdI/AAAAAAAAATc/nIyBwzs7_UY/s1600/DSC_0615.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S9ShRGgMJdI/AAAAAAAAATc/nIyBwzs7_UY/s320/DSC_0615.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S9SjCEcDLWI/AAAAAAAAAT0/HVYmxsYooAs/s1600/DSC_0629.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S9SjCEcDLWI/AAAAAAAAAT0/HVYmxsYooAs/s320/DSC_0629.JPG" /></a></div><br />&nbsp;You'll want some farm-fresh eggs from a sweet little hen...<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S9ShwjX9XvI/AAAAAAAAATk/mlK5PyJBv4s/s1600/DSC_0618.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S9ShwjX9XvI/AAAAAAAAATk/mlK5PyJBv4s/s320/DSC_0618.JPG" /></a></div><br />Can't you tell just by looking at those eggs that the hen was a happy girl walking her way around the farm, visiting with the girls, finding crunchy bugs to chew on and casting sweet glances in the direction of that no-good rooster?<br /><br />Moving right along....this wasn't really meant to be a romantic recipe after all. <br /><br />Measure out one-half cup of sugar<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S9SjfMcKsvI/AAAAAAAAAT8/0HUe4Yo5LX8/s1600/DSC_0630.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S9SjfMcKsvI/AAAAAAAAAT8/0HUe4Yo5LX8/s320/DSC_0630.JPG" /></a></div>one teaspoon of salt<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S9Sk0TeXz3I/AAAAAAAAAUE/oVPIevxWy30/s1600/DSC_0631.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S9Sk0TeXz3I/AAAAAAAAAUE/oVPIevxWy30/s320/DSC_0631.JPG" /></a></div><br />I use <a href="http://www.realsalt.com/">Real Salt</a>.&nbsp; It is our favorite.&nbsp; Can you see the minerals in it?&nbsp; I buy it in a large bag and just keep refilling my small shaker.<br /><br />And you'll need your trusty baking power (<a href="http://www.davidlebovitz.com/archives/2008/10/why_you_should_use_aluminum-free.html">aluminum-free</a>, please)&nbsp; <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S9Slby2KKyI/AAAAAAAAAUM/rK6yWmlXNU4/s1600/DSC_0633.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S9Slby2KKyI/AAAAAAAAAUM/rK6yWmlXNU4/s320/DSC_0633.JPG" /></a></div><br />While you're busy getting your supplies together, measure out two cups of water and one-third cup of powdered milk.&nbsp; <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S9SifB_RkXI/AAAAAAAAATs/_p4s7IyZUpI/s1600/DSC_0621.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S9SifB_RkXI/AAAAAAAAATs/_p4s7IyZUpI/s320/DSC_0621.JPG" /></a></div><br />Put all of the ingredients in your mixer (that's my <a href="http://www.urbanhomemaker.com/productcart/pc/viewCategories.asp?idCategory=225">Bosch</a> in the background...thanks, <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22251943@N02/4193575045/">Mom</a>! a million times over!) and mix for two minutes.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S9SnBeoDEEI/AAAAAAAAAUU/E0--SMZnF9g/s1600/DSC_0641.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S9SnBeoDEEI/AAAAAAAAAUU/E0--SMZnF9g/s320/DSC_0641.JPG" /></a></div>Grab your large cast iron skillet.....the one your grandmother left you in her will or the one you wisely purchased at that amazing garage sale and put two tablespoons of bacon grease in it.&nbsp; This is the moment I'll hear plenty of you shouting....I don't keep bacon grease!&nbsp; We try to stay away from those kinds of fats!&nbsp; Only hillbillies eat bacon grease!&nbsp; You have just entered Hillbilly World, Friend.<br /><br />Put your skillet into the oven and let the skillet get hot.&nbsp; The grease can't help but melt.&nbsp; It will be your job to see that the bottom gets covered with the grease once it is completely melted.<br /><br />Carefully take out the very heavy, very hot skillet.&nbsp; Pour in your cornbread batter and cook for 15 to 20 minutes.&nbsp; You'll know it is finished when the top is golden and your mouth is watering. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S9Sovjq4jTI/AAAAAAAAAUc/QRGV_v3OLeY/s1600/DSC_0644.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S9Sovjq4jTI/AAAAAAAAAUc/QRGV_v3OLeY/s400/DSC_0644.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S9Sqyc4K_cI/AAAAAAAAAUk/hOnYrV8rjbg/s1600/DSC_0648.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S9Sqyc4K_cI/AAAAAAAAAUk/hOnYrV8rjbg/s320/DSC_0648.JPG" /></a></div><br />Now that looks mighty tasty, doesn't it?&nbsp; Can you see why it makes good cake too?&nbsp; Put a little butter on it and then drizzle some honey over that.&nbsp; Oh, Babe, sit back and savor the moment....Corn Cake has just arrived.<br /><br /><span style="font-size: small;">Thank you again, Jonny.&nbsp; You take <i>amazing </i>pictures of your Moma cookin!</span><br /><br />The easy-to-read version, dull but easy-to-read:<br /><br />2 cups cornmeal<br />2 cups flour<br />1/2 sugar<br />1/3 cup powdered milk<br />1 teaspoon salt<br />1/2 cup oil<br />2 tablespoons baking powder<br />2 cups water<br />2 eggs<br />2 tablespoons bacon grease<br /><br />Heat oven to 400 degrees.&nbsp; Mix all ingredients except for bacon grease in mixer.&nbsp; Add bacon grease to skillet and place in oven to heat.&nbsp; Evenly spread out grease and pour in batter.&nbsp; Bake for 15 to 20 minutes.&nbsp; <br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>jannzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04589564012978844513noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4132413415925715656.post-78964558039426709442010-02-26T11:31:00.000-08:002010-02-26T11:37:19.014-08:00Love SauceOnce upon a time, in a very big city, there was a fast-food place that a young girl liked to eat at.&nbsp; There were only two in this very big city and they were quite a distance from one another but both were very tasty and enjoyed by the girl.<br /><br />Like a creature of habit, the girl always bought the same thing.&nbsp; A grilled burger on a lightly toasted bun with grated cheddar cheese and Sauce.&nbsp; Oh, the Sauce.&nbsp; Happiness joined these two: the juicy burger and the yummy Sauce.&nbsp; And when the girl ate there, she joined in the happy union....and savored the moment.<br /><br />Then one day the girl moved away.<br /><br />Far, far away.&nbsp; Like when you discover it's hard to visit as often as you'd like and your heart starts hurting. <br /><br />The body can always move.&nbsp; The heart often remains.<br /><br />The girl decided that life was going to be only as good as she could make it so she set out to make it tasty.<br /><br />Tasty is important.&nbsp; Never forget that.<br /><br />Burgers, even juicy ones, can be made.&nbsp; Lightly toasted buns, grated sharp cheddar cheese....all these things can be had.&nbsp; But the Sauce!<br /><br />So....on a dark and foggy night the girl set out to reunite herself with the moment of Happiness between Juicy Burger and Sauce.....as they had come to be known.&nbsp; <br /><br />Call it fate.&nbsp; Call it destiny.&nbsp; Call it desperation on a mission.&nbsp; Yummy Sauce was achieved and forevermore became known far and wide as <b>LOVE SAUCE</b>!&nbsp; (Can you hear the angels singing???)<br /><br />Love Sauce....a hush falls over the room.<br /><br />Love Sauce...the mouth begins to water.<br /><br />Love Sauce....a smile escapes the lips.<br /><br />Love Sauce....Reunited with the Juicy Burger!<br /><br />And now, many years later after a long bout of soul-searching, the girl, almost as young as she was in the former days.....only younger now because of the joy in her heart, decided to share this piece of Happiness with you.&nbsp; <br /><br />You will accomplish this great feat with unexpected ease.&nbsp; You will pass it on to future generations.&nbsp; You will slather it on your burgers and pile high the mountain of grated cheddar cheese.&nbsp; You will become known far and wide for your great culinary skills.&nbsp; You will sing my praises...if you don't happen to already.&nbsp; And you will shout with exclamations of joy when the Great Burger Day comes and you can once again make Love Sauce.<br /><br />Let us get down to business now.&nbsp; Are you prepared to begin impacting the world with more love?<br /><br />Assemble you supplies and start your engines.<br /><br />You'll need only a few things to make your great mark in the <i>Book of Tantalizing Tastes</i>:<br /><br />1 cup of ketchup, a very good brand, if you please<br />3 tablespoons of Liquid Smoke<br />Bowl and spoon<br /><br />Mix the two together until they are one.&nbsp; Lick spoon.&nbsp; You're done.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S4gfkP0aCmI/AAAAAAAAARo/c9-urDGGBKk/s1600-h/KFC_1690.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S4gfkP0aCmI/AAAAAAAAARo/c9-urDGGBKk/s320/KFC_1690.JPG" /></a>&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">&nbsp;<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S4gfyvsayuI/AAAAAAAAARw/sr_ICeC9Mrw/s1600-h/KFC_1691.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S4gfyvsayuI/AAAAAAAAARw/sr_ICeC9Mrw/s320/KFC_1691.JPG" /></a>&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">&nbsp;<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S4gf_vaL7EI/AAAAAAAAAR4/mlLakg8k1Vo/s1600-h/KFC_1692.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S4gf_vaL7EI/AAAAAAAAAR4/mlLakg8k1Vo/s320/KFC_1692.JPG" /></a>&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">&nbsp;<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S4ggWy9D87I/AAAAAAAAASA/EZ54iqrUJMM/s1600-h/KFC_1694.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S4ggWy9D87I/AAAAAAAAASA/EZ54iqrUJMM/s320/KFC_1694.JPG" /></a>&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">&nbsp;<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S4ggjfakbuI/AAAAAAAAASI/CrFMnIcv60I/s1600-h/KFC_1695.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S4ggjfakbuI/AAAAAAAAASI/CrFMnIcv60I/s320/KFC_1695.JPG" /></a></div><br />You are now a Graduate of my<b> Tantalizing Taste School for Masters</b>.<br /><br />What?&nbsp; Did you forget to send in the application for acceptance to this great school no-one-anywhere-has-ever-heard-about?&nbsp; Did you <i><b>not</b></i> enclose your check or money order?&nbsp; Are you suggesting you just got all this <i>for free</i>???<br /><br />I guess I'll let you slide this <i>one time</i>....if you make this one deal with&nbsp; me.&nbsp; Use my Great and Wonderful recipe frequently and herein and forevermore refer to it as the great Love Sauce that it is and spread your fair share of love in this world.&nbsp;&nbsp; The Good Lord knows we sure need it!<br /><br /><b>A message from the Dean of Culinary Education </b>(that's me after all)<b>:&nbsp;&nbsp;</b><br />You may at any time adjust the measurements given.&nbsp; I just wanted to get you on a roll.&nbsp; More, less, whatever you want.&nbsp; You're the Boss, I only pretend to be the Boss.&nbsp; I found out I don't really like being the Boss.&nbsp; It's too demanding and<i> bossy</i>.&nbsp; It really doesn't pay that well either~jannzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04589564012978844513noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4132413415925715656.post-33348050468135651762010-02-08T19:55:00.001-08:002010-02-09T13:26:58.574-08:00Even in Illinois People are Celebrating!<div style="float: right; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 10px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22251943@N02/4342716800/" title="photo sharing"><img alt="" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2761/4342716800_2c531ea1a2_m.jpg" style="border: 2px solid rgb(0, 0, 0);" /></a><br /><span style="font-size: 0.9em; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22251943@N02/4342716800/">Even in Illinois</a><br />Originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/22251943@N02/">jannza</a></span></div>Just in case you're wondering.....I'll set your mind at ease.<br /><br />My team won!jannzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04589564012978844513noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4132413415925715656.post-28484775438122885222010-02-06T11:37:00.000-08:002010-02-06T14:54:04.542-08:00Mocha-Walnut Bars with Dark Chocolate GanacheWhat a lovely, deliciously, chocolaty time of year.&nbsp; With Valentine's Day approaching, I decided to look up some yummy treats that my family might like.&nbsp; We all enjoy homemade goodies so this was a fun project.&nbsp; Come in the kitchen with me and we'll whip up something tasty.<br /><br />This recipe-posting is dedicated to one of my very sweet daughters, Miss All-Grown-Up, who happens to live a long way away.&nbsp; I miss you, Sweetheart, and wish I could make this for you today.&nbsp; We'd share a sweet cookie-bar and a hot coffee over a loooong conversation. <br /><br />Today I'm making a Pillsbury recipe:&nbsp; Mocha-Walnut Bars with Dark Chocolate Ganache.&nbsp; The bars have three distinct layers which are prepared and cooked separately, one on top of another.&nbsp; It is very easy to do and your children can jump in and help you.&nbsp; (Trust me, if they don't help you in the beginning while you're putting this together.....they WILL help you in the end by eating it!&nbsp; Maybe now's a great time to tell them the story of The Little Red Hen...)&nbsp; The recipe is designed to be quick and easy and does so by using refrigerated sugar cookie dough. &nbsp; Feel free to use your own sugar cookie dough recipe instead if you'd prefer.&nbsp; <br /><br /><br />2 1/2 cups of very finely chopped walnuts<br />6 T. sugar<br />6 T. melted butter<br />1 roll sugar cookie dough (or make a batch of sugar cookie dough from your personal favorite recipe!)<br />2 T. instant espresso coffee granules (the recipe called for 1T. but 2T. gives it more of the coffee flavor)<br />1 t. home-brewed vanilla (my own personal addition) <br />1 1/2 cups dark chocolate baking chips<br />1/4 cup plus 2T. whipping cream<br /><br />It's a great idea to get your supplies together.&nbsp; It makes the work go smoothly and you can live out your cooking show fantasies.&nbsp; (That'll be our little secret.)<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S22t9sQwh5I/AAAAAAAAAPU/EVaFrZhrE0c/s1600-h/KFC_1575.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S22t9sQwh5I/AAAAAAAAAPU/EVaFrZhrE0c/s320/KFC_1575.JPG" /></a></div>Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.<br /><br />Stir your walnuts, sugar and butter together in a bowl until completely mixed.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S224FYHyLNI/AAAAAAAAAPk/ASMWhaO5_cY/s1600-h/KFC_1581.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S224FYHyLNI/AAAAAAAAAPk/ASMWhaO5_cY/s320/KFC_1581.JPG" /></a>&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">&nbsp;<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S224PS8EbJI/AAAAAAAAAPs/UPD_Bi9S7SI/s1600-h/KFC_1578.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S224PS8EbJI/AAAAAAAAAPs/UPD_Bi9S7SI/s320/KFC_1578.JPG" /></a></div>&nbsp; <br />This is where I decided to add my homemade vanilla.&nbsp; (Now you need to know how to make your own delicious vanilla!&nbsp; We'll get to that soon.&nbsp; It's easy, only a bit time-consuming and you know it is homemade goodness.)<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S227Wbl65EI/AAAAAAAAAQU/kz-6BndEKcg/s1600-h/KFC_1586.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S227Wbl65EI/AAAAAAAAAQU/kz-6BndEKcg/s320/KFC_1586.JPG" /></a></div><br />Press the mixture evenly on the bottom of an ungreased 13 x 9 pan.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S224jVNE3NI/AAAAAAAAAP0/zHfto46RwFM/s1600-h/KFC_1587.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S224jVNE3NI/AAAAAAAAAP0/zHfto46RwFM/s320/KFC_1587.JPG" /></a></div><br />(Here's where I'd like to tell you that I followed the directions exactly and wasn't as pleased at how they came out of the pan.&nbsp; I'd suggest spraying the pan before layering.&nbsp; It's what I plan to do next time.)<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Bake for 8-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S225ijVKqkI/AAAAAAAAAQE/ReR54-we1v8/s1600-h/KFC_1593.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S225ijVKqkI/AAAAAAAAAQE/ReR54-we1v8/s320/KFC_1593.JPG" /></a></div>Cool for 30 minutes.<br /><br />While that is cooling, begin to prepare the cookie layer.&nbsp; In a large bowl, knead the cookie dough and espresso granules until blended.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S223AXXM2qI/AAAAAAAAAPc/OyGXmkKxQKo/s1600-h/KFC_1577.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S223AXXM2qI/AAAAAAAAAPc/OyGXmkKxQKo/s320/KFC_1577.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S226GgKFnOI/AAAAAAAAAQM/QkiWP08B5yk/s1600-h/KFC_1583.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S226GgKFnOI/AAAAAAAAAQM/QkiWP08B5yk/s320/KFC_1583.JPG" /></a></div>&nbsp; <br />Drop spoonfuls of dough evenly over the walnut crust.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Gently press the dough together over the crust.&nbsp; Bake for 20 minutes.&nbsp; (The recipe said to cook for 20-25 minutes but I think 25 is a little long and makes the cookie too crunchy.)&nbsp; Let cool for 30 minutes.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S227y08a_4I/AAAAAAAAAQc/_rBOWiKX0vI/s1600-h/KFC_1598.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S227y08a_4I/AAAAAAAAAQc/_rBOWiKX0vI/s320/KFC_1598.JPG" /></a>&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Finally the ganache.....What a wonderful word.&nbsp; It rolls around your mouth much like the chocolate itself!&nbsp; And it isn't hard to make but very impressive. &nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I prefer to make my ganache in a double-broiler, which I also have to make.&nbsp; If you don't have one, make one like mine.&nbsp; I put a glass bowl over a small pot of water and let the water heat up and melt my chocolate chips.&nbsp; The other option is the microwave but I don't like microwaves so we don't happen to have one.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Add the chocolate chips and the whipping cream to your bowl and heat it slowly.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S2284bdCm2I/AAAAAAAAAQk/djpGlidyYkU/s1600-h/KFC_1596.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S2284bdCm2I/AAAAAAAAAQk/djpGlidyYkU/s320/KFC_1596.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S229Eu2w13I/AAAAAAAAAQs/l492r1cTjrc/s1600-h/KFC_1597.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S229Eu2w13I/AAAAAAAAAQs/l492r1cTjrc/s320/KFC_1597.JPG" /></a>&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Your chips will begin to mix and the whipping cream will blend right in.&nbsp; I stir constantly because the transformation tends to happen quickly.&nbsp; Stir until the chips and cream are one happy family.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">&nbsp;<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S229fbnazhI/AAAAAAAAAQ0/-WKTlx2vSZ0/s1600-h/KFC_1599.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S229fbnazhI/AAAAAAAAAQ0/-WKTlx2vSZ0/s320/KFC_1599.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Spread the chocolate ganache over the bars.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">&nbsp;<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S229t9jq-MI/AAAAAAAAAQ8/muyW-c2AaHc/s1600-h/KFC_1600.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S229t9jq-MI/AAAAAAAAAQ8/muyW-c2AaHc/s320/KFC_1600.JPG" /></a>&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Refrigerate for one hour.&nbsp; Cut the bars into 24 servings (6 rows by 4 rows) or smaller if you'd like dainty servings that don't seem to add as much cushion to your thighs.&nbsp; I'm just saying.....</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">They're delightful and delicious with a hot cup of coffee or an ice cold glass of milk.&nbsp; Divine.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S22-XIgKPII/AAAAAAAAARE/_mrjpjkfVi4/s1600-h/KFC_1618.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/S22-XIgKPII/AAAAAAAAARE/_mrjpjkfVi4/s320/KFC_1618.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div>ps.&nbsp; Licking fingers is allowed.<br /><br />***<i>Thank you</i><b> </b>to <b>Jonathan Anderson</b> for taking the pictures.&nbsp; Your work is always the<b> best</b>!jannzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04589564012978844513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4132413415925715656.post-91742874878289260592009-12-19T10:30:00.000-08:002009-12-19T11:09:23.920-08:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2618/4037761687_36331c24a1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 500px; height: 335px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2618/4037761687_36331c24a1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: rgb(255, 153, 255); font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;font-family:georgia;" ><span style="font-size:180%;">Merry Christmas</span></span><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 153, 255);">from the Nellis family</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 153, 255);">Wishing you many blessings this holiday season!</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div>jannzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04589564012978844513noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4132413415925715656.post-58306543198585405382009-11-04T19:18:00.001-08:002009-11-05T07:42:36.976-08:00Welcome Home Quilt<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><br /><span style="margin-top: 0px;font-size:0.9em;" ><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/22251943@N02/"><br /></a></span></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22251943@N02/2930218738/" title="Welcome Home by jannza, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3011/2930218738_e907fbbfb7.jpg" alt="Welcome Home" width="500" height="333" /></a><br /><br /><br />My favorite quilts are scrap quilts. They tell so many stories and I'm a lover of great stories.<br /><br />I made this quilt for my husband from the scraps I had in my collection. This quilt tells tales from the quilt shop my mother and I owned in the 1980s, it tells me about dresses I made for my daughter who is now 21 years-old, and it comforts me in the middle of the night.<br /><br />The colors make it sparkle and I just love that.<br /><br />Thanks for letting me share more of my collection and the <a href="http://firefliesandjellybeans.blogspot.com/2009/11/show-off-your-stuff-party-2-and.html">Show Off Your Stuff Party</a>.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://firefliesandjellybeans.blogspot.com/" target="_blank" border="0"><img src="http://i223.photobucket.com/albums/dd3/fjnorm/showoffyourstuffbutton.jpg" /></a><br /><br />jannzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04589564012978844513noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4132413415925715656.post-18940458111776633642009-11-03T13:00:00.000-08:002009-11-03T18:17:55.644-08:00Turn the Page......Tuesday<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:130%;">Henry and the Great Society<br />by H. L. Roush, Sr.<br /><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.jesuslovesme.org/Henry_Cover.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 311px;" src="http://www.jesuslovesme.org/Henry_Cover.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />I purchased this book through Amazon because it isn't easily available elsewhere. The premise of the book might even be frowned upon today. I'm jumping ahead of myself!<br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br />The author wastes no time in explaining that he feels compelled to write this story and then goes on to admit that it is the sad story of his own life. I was intrigued with the description when I first read about the book and knew myself well enough to know that I wouldn't be offended by his sentiments......I'd probably agree wholeheartedly!<br /><br />The story of our dear Henry begins in the midst of sweet contentment with his wife. They treasure their lives together. Bliss. Happiness. Their children are a part of this existence and life is good.<br /><br />As time will often do, "progress" begins to make its way into the community where they live. Henry and his wife are able to stand back and evaluate the offerings that the changes might......could........WILL......bring about. They decide how much they want to participate in those changes.....aka, opportunities.<br /><br />This very short book ( 188 pages in all ) is a revealing look at the way many conveniences and progressive changes affect our lives. I am not in favor of giving up all of the things we have come to depend upon. And this isn't a book about how to live "like the Amish," as some people I know would say. (You know who you are!) In fact, you need not change your way of life at all. I just felt a desire to read this book and evaluate my life, my time and how some convenient things hinder me from real living.<br /><br />I can't fail to mention that the book was written in 1969! As I type this, I must smile to myself. How many things have been developed since then to "aid" us and make our lives better?! I appreciate the thought that Mr. Roush put into his story and I especially appreciate the effort and willingness to be so revealing since it represents some portion of his own life.<br /><br />I did happen to find a <a href="http://www.jesuslovesme.org/newWeb/media/PDF_BOOKS/HENRY%20AND%20THE%20GREAT%20SOCIETY.pdf">copy of the book</a> online which you can read if you are interested. If you do happen to read it, let me know what you think.<br /><br />And before I sign off I must say the following so read it carefully:<br /><br />I DO mill my own wheat for flour....but do so with an electric mill.<br />I DO own a cell phone....but don't use it much.<br />I DO quilt...sometimes by hand and sometimes by machine...gasp! (Confession: I'd love to buy a treadle machine)<br />I DO make the butter we eat....yes, in a food processor! More electronics!<br />NO washboard for me, laundry is done same as yours!<br /><br />We garden, can some of our food, eat and drink "the good stuff", do as much home-cookin' as we can and love one another along the way. It was good to look at my life and priorities since I think they need to be evaluated on a constant basis.<br /><br />Thank you to Adrienne for hosting <a href="http://someofakind.blogspot.com/2009/11/turn-page-tuesday-bend-in-rd.html">Turn the Page.......Tuesday</a>!<br /></div></div>jannzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04589564012978844513noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4132413415925715656.post-11803275611594246632009-10-29T17:17:00.001-07:002009-10-30T12:47:40.527-07:00My Stacked Coins and Vine Quilt<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22251943@N02/4056373239/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3516/4056373239_b9102d0d92_m.jpg" alt="" style="border: 2px solid rgb(0, 0, 0);" /></a><br /><span style="margin-top: 0px;font-size:0.9em;" ><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22251943@N02/4056373239/">Stacked Coins and Vine Quilt</a><br />Originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/22251943@N02/">jannza</a></span></div>My quilts are full of countless stitches and heaps of love since it takes that for me to make a quilt. I'm not fast like many quilters these days. I can easily get pulled away with cooking, baking, and schooling projects. I'm one to take my time on most of the sewing I do. I try to savor every moment......<br /><br />I have several quilts that haven't been photographed. Since <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22251943@N02/3600678376/">Mr. Drummer Boy is aka Mr. Master Photographer</a>, I decided to have him take some pictures of it (and several of the antique quilts that I own) over time.<br /><br />I made this quilt several years ago and am rather careful with it. We tend to use everything I make and most things start to look a bit worn and "tuckered-out." I felt like this one looked more like a wall piece to me but it hasn't made its way to the wall just yet.<br /><br />It is machine-pieced and quilted and the applique was completed by hand. The coins are all woven plaids which I dearly love. I have since made several scrap quilts (my ultimate favorite quilts) and have managed to squeeze several of the plaids into them. Not one little piece goes to waste!<br /><br />I can't say enough about quality fabrics. I don't purchase fabric too often because the good-stuff comes dearly but when I do get my supplies, I try to get the best I can afford. It has been my personal experience that the better the fabric, the better it wears over time.....and I've already mentioned how we use everything. Sometimes until it's threadbare.<br /><br />Quilting is such a therapy for me, whether by hand or machine...and I do love both! I remember back in 1980, when my mother and I owned a quilt shop just outside of New Orleans. We had a few customers who would come in and make their purchases and enter the name of a grocery store in the check register! While I'm NOT condoning the art of lying, but I do understand their obsession. And their were a few other customers who received gift certificates for classes (sometimes from sweet and understanding husbands) so that they could have their own dose of quilting therapy.<br /><br />The 1980s offered us a few hard times...sort of like these days all over again. I'm all for sewing the stresses away.<br /><br />One last note, I had an <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22251943@N02/3902426430/">aunt</a> come for a visit this summer and while she was here, she spent some time admiring my finished quilts. After a little while, she looked at me and told me I'd been real smart to put my time into something that could be handed down to loved ones one day. I couldn't help by agree.<br /><br />All the stitches....all the love.<br /><br />**Proud to be part of the <a href="http://http://firefliesandjellybeans.blogspot.com/2009/10/show-us-your-stuff-party.html">Show Off Your Stuff </a>party at <a href="http://firefliesandjellybeans.blogspot.com/">Fireflies and Jellybeans</a>.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://firefliesandjellybeans.blogspot.com/" target="_blank" border="0"><img src="http://i223.photobucket.com/albums/dd3/fjnorm/showoffyourstuffbutton.jpg" /></a><br /><br />jannzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04589564012978844513noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4132413415925715656.post-56255939059774949682009-10-29T14:33:00.001-07:002009-10-29T20:16:45.193-07:00A Lovely Giveaway and Sweet Blog<div style="text-align: left;"> I don't generally promote the giveaways from someone else's blog, however <a href="http://fabricpaperthread.blogspot.com/">this lady</a> is very kind and generous. I wanted to take a moment to encourage you to look at her blog and enjoy her work and words. I find her inspirational and refreshing. Her most recent post describes an endearing picnic she set up for her family. You're bound to appreciate the thought she puts into her everyday life. With regards to her giveaway: she is celebrating her birthday and the items she is giving away has a link in the picnic post or you can see it in the following post.<br /><br />I may need to plan a picnic of my own soon......<br /></div>jannzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04589564012978844513noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4132413415925715656.post-33627430902815713522009-10-27T16:08:00.001-07:002009-10-29T20:15:24.044-07:00<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">How to Practice Piano in Six Easy-to-Follow Steps</span></span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Step One</span></span><br /></div><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22251943@N02/2734713285/" title="6:47-Day 28- How to Practice Piano in Six Easy-to-Follow Steps- step 1 by jannza, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3254/2734713285_7ce2af8fe6.jpg" alt="6:47-Day 28- How to Practice Piano in Six Easy-to-Follow Steps- step 1" width="500" height="333" /></a><br /><br />Sit with good posture and play the pieces your teacher gave you for the week.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Step Two</span></span><br /><br /></div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22251943@N02/2735544876/" title="How to Practice Piano- step 2 by jannza, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3119/2735544876_19308bb70d.jpg" alt="How to Practice Piano- step 2" width="500" height="333" /></a><br /><br />Smile when your brother sits beside you and invite him to a duet.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Step Three</span></span><br /></div><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22251943@N02/2735543386/" title="How to Practice Piano- step 3 by jannza, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3023/2735543386_ea5b18a68f.jpg" alt="How to Practice Piano- step 3" width="500" height="333" /></a><br /><br />As he begins to take over the piece, gently slide (no pushing, please) him over and place your arm over the notes he shouldn't be playing.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Step Four</span></span><br /></div><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22251943@N02/2734709109/" title="How to Practice Piano- step 4 by jannza, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3049/2734709109_46f3a0aff6.jpg" alt="How to Practice Piano- step 4" width="500" height="333" /></a><br /><br />If this technique fails, sweetly place your arm on him and explain to him that you are a budding pianist and would like to continue your devotion to music. He'll begin to understand that you are under time constraints and that you must take your music seriously.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Step Five</span></span><br /></div><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22251943@N02/2735540770/" title="How to Practice Piano- step 5 by jannza, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3031/2735540770_1fcc579160.jpg" alt="How to Practice Piano- step 5" width="500" height="333" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Don't be surprised if your brother is overcome with joy and decides to hug you. He isn't trying to slow you down in your endeavors, he is simply expressing his deep-felt emotion.<br /><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Step Six</span></span><br /></div><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22251943@N02/2735539234/" title="How to Practice Piano- step 6 by jannza, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3139/2735539234_e8fe1b6df6.jpg" alt="How to Practice Piano- step 6" width="500" height="333" /></a><br />If you've truly impressed him, your brother will even give you pats on the back(side).<br /><br />You'll never know what music does to people until you begin to play an instrument.<br /><br />It really does soothe the savage beast.....as illustrated above.jannzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04589564012978844513noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4132413415925715656.post-54961977207804736792009-10-27T15:29:00.001-07:002009-10-29T20:13:46.283-07:00Harvey and Marcelle, the Love Affair<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22251943@N02/2726816158/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3275/2726816158_c0706ded7a_m.jpg" alt="" style="border: 2px solid rgb(0, 0, 0);" /></a><br /><span style="margin-top: 0px;font-size:0.9em;" ><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22251943@N02/2726816158/">6:47- Day 26- Harvey and Marcelle</a><br />Originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/22251943@N02/">jannza</a></span></div>This is Harvey and his bride, Marcelle.<br /><br />He met her in France during the war back in the forties. They fell in love and married in the states just after she met his parents and brother, Elwood. (Many have said that Elwood was Harvey's best friend as opposed to brother....and that was true. However, Harvey's parents passed in a tragic auto accident. It was at that time that Elwood's family decided to legally adopt Harvey thus making him a brother and a friend. Perfect combination, don't you think?)<br /><br />Meanwhile, Harvey and Marcelle have shared many wonderful years together and now that the children are grown they are enjoying their twilight years in sweet bliss.<br /><br />Marcelle is the quiet type and that's been good for Harvey. She hasn't complained as he's told his war stories (a bit more than once). He is a decorated war-hero and though she loves him for it, she could recite the stories herself. It's just easier to be quiet and listen and it makes him feel so special.<br /><br />You see them here enjoying the fresh evening breeze.<br /><br />I've heard him frequently say that she was more than he'd ever dared to hope for.<br /><br />One more happy couple.<br /><br />Post-script: Harvey and Marcelle were running from a very bad city and she looked back and turned into a pillar of ceramic. Harvey still loves her.jannzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04589564012978844513noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4132413415925715656.post-24695594111862356702009-10-27T15:26:00.001-07:002009-10-29T20:10:58.011-07:00Charlie<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22251943@N02/2885425215/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3281/2885425215_42af9e5be2_m.jpg" alt="" style="border: 2px solid rgb(0, 0, 0);" /></a><br /><span style="margin-top: 0px;font-size:0.9em;" ><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22251943@N02/2885425215/">Charlie</a><br />Originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/22251943@N02/">jannza</a></span></div>Charlie worked on the shrimp boats in the Gulf of Mexico. He doesn't talk much about those days of shrimp, hurricanes, crabs and catfish but I'll tell you a bit of his story.<br /><br />You can understand why Charlie would pick the seafood industry. He's partial to a good meal. (So am I.....we have that in common.)<br /><br />He'd always looked into the night sky with wanderlust. Charlie wanted the thrill of the water and waves. He wanted to feel the rocking of the boat and to hear the gulf waters lapping against the seaworthy vessel. He dreamed of catching the wayward mouse as it scurred across the deck. Charlie wanted the "big catch."<br /><br />He spent his days watching the tide coming in and going out. His eyes followed the seagulls flying overhead. Were they taunting him?<br /><br />Charlie's day came. He boarded the ship and his adventures began.<br /><br />I've given away too much already. I'll resist the temptation to go on. The only other thing I'll tell you is this:<br /><br />Charlie got the "big catch," only differently than he'd expected.<br /><br />Be watching for: Charlie's Big Catch.jannzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04589564012978844513noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4132413415925715656.post-3450303199279460542009-09-16T17:26:00.001-07:002009-10-29T20:07:42.685-07:00Homeschooling in Autumn<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22251943@N02/3926834883/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2527/3926834883_db571ca20a_m.jpg" alt="" style="border: 2px solid rgb(0, 0, 0);" /></a><br /><span style="margin-top: 0px;font-size:0.9em;" ><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22251943@N02/3926834883/">Homeschooling in Autumn</a><br />Originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/22251943@N02/">jannza</a></span></div>Peaceful, serene, autumn.....<br /><br />A word of comfort<br /><br />Flowers to remember<br /><br />A candle for peace<br /><br />Colored pencils to inspire<br /><br />A table-runner from a delightfully creative day<br /><br />and<br /><br />A rock from the new homestead to remind me of the southjannzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04589564012978844513noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4132413415925715656.post-27341169254587280422009-09-06T12:57:00.000-07:002009-09-06T13:59:27.982-07:00Turn the Page....Tuesday (September)<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/jerryjenkins_2066_434301"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 122px; height: 180px;" src="http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/jerryjenkins_2066_434301" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">My middle son and I tend to recommend books to one another. We enjoy some of the same authors and I'm always eager to read more of what he finds interesting. There's something to be said about sharing the love of reading with your children and the joy that comes from being able to discuss a book and the way it makes you <span style="font-style: italic;">feel</span>. (This book is <span style="font-weight: bold;">not</span> a childrens book. This particular child is on the high end of the teen years.) Books....stories....are so full of impact and power.<br /><br />Jerry B. Jenkins has written many books and I have read several, all of which I enjoyed. This particular book was a special one to him. The author hopes that you're left pondering the story and it's characters. I'm finding that to be so for me.<br /><br />I'll tell you straight up that it has a spiritual base. It that offends you, you may not enjoy this book. If, however, you are intrigued by the workings of mankind and our relationship to God, this may be just the ticket.<br /><br />Riven follows the life of a wayward teen who makes repeated mistakes in his life. I found myself almost cringing at his choices. They were understandably the choices of a person not in control of their temper. Page by page I could see the consequences adding up and painfully so.<br /><br />I wouldn't be honest if I lead you to believe that bad choices were out of my realm either. I've certainly made my share. Thankfully they weren't as far-reaching as his but before I get lost in patting myself on the back.....let's be clear, they were bad choices in and of themselves and the sting of Wrong still burns.....like it or not.<br /><br />Brady, the struggling teen, did face difficult obstacles. We all face those, right? Brady even wanted to set things aright in his life and made some efforts to do so but was easily led astray by situations he believed would fill voids that had existed in his life for as long as he could remember. Has that happened to you before too? Something comes along and you know that there is a better solution but this one seems handy and quickly available and viola, you've readjusted your plan. It's only later when you realize your folly.<br /><br />I can't (or won't) give away the remainder of Brady's story. Anger acted upon is not pretty and this story only convinces me further. He does make a decision to change the trajectory of his life. Will it be too late?<br /><br />Several other characters are noteworthy. I found myself following them closely as they interacted or "rippled on one another" as I choose to say. We do ripple on one another, knowingly or not. That is, after all, where the very name of my blog comes from. I consider my life to be one little ripple on the lives of those around me. It's sometimes strange to watch the affects of one life touching another and in a compelling story such as this, it is profound.<br /><br />My son and I will continue to share the stories we enjoy and we will continue to ripple on others, hopefully in a positive manner. Consider reading this book for a glimmer of true hope even in light of seemingly dismal circumstances. Consider rippling on someone. Be a blessing....an encouragement. Life is hard and we all have a story!<br /><br />Thank you again to <a href="http://someofakind.blogspot.com/2009/09/turn-page-tuesday.html">Adrienne</a> for a thought-provoking month of reading! My next month's selection is made and is completely different from any I've done so far. Best to keep you guessing....<br /></div><br /></div>jannzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04589564012978844513noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4132413415925715656.post-21333052635336231872009-08-04T07:05:00.000-07:002009-08-04T08:29:59.408-07:00Turn the Page....Tuesday (August 2009)<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://cdn.overstock.com/images/products/0/1/muze/books/L9780312380052.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 166px; height: 250px;" src="http://cdn.overstock.com/images/products/0/1/muze/books/L9780312380052.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>When <a href="http://someofakind.blogspot.com/2009/08/turn-page-tuesday.html">Adrienne</a> suggested we read a classic this month, many choices came to mind. I decided on: I, Juan de Pareja simply because I've read it at least three times and I will do so at least once again.<br /><br />Since we are homeschoolers, there are several books which I choose to read to the children aloud. This is one of them. Since the kids are at different levels, I have read it to them separately and there is still one daughter waiting her turn. (Many of you are thinking I'm crazy at this point but I actually enjoy reading it to them on an individual basis. We always have great discussions.)<br /><br />I love history and this book focuses on the time period of slavery in Spain during the seventeenth century. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Juan_de_Pareja">Juan de Pareja</a> is a slave working for a famous painter, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diego_Vel%C3%A1zquez">Velazquez</a>. He is loyal and faithful to the family for many years and begins to learn a love of painting. He believes he has talent and wants to be a painter himself but slaves are forbidden to paint.<br /><br />The chapters follow this great family through many turbulent (and a few exciting) years and we are able to watch the friendship between master and slave develop. I am always taken by the closeness and confiding relationship of the two main characters. This story offers talent, romance, bravery, loyalty, sadness and loss, and years of devotion.<br /><br />I, Juan de Pareja is a very touching story. It continues to stay with me over the years and already I am looking forward to reading it again. Although the story is just a story, it is based on the few known facts of these two real men. I hope you will read it and not shy away since I've mentioned it as somewhat of a children's book. It was written in 1965 and received a Newberry Medal award. If you do happen to get around to reading it, let me know what you think. It's one of my all-time favorites.<br /><br />**On a side note: I missed posting my Turn the Page Tuesday last month as I was out gallivanting in the south trying to warm up my cold body from last winter in northern Illinois. I hate to promise something and then not fulfill it so the post intended for last month is directly below. I hope you'll take the time to read it as I enjoyed the book and thought myself very clever for combining the book subject with the object taking all of my free time that month. I often get a bit proud of myself and then quickly fall flat on my face. Last month was no exception. God likes to keep me humble.jannzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04589564012978844513noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4132413415925715656.post-81655560422676025772009-08-04T06:12:00.000-07:002009-08-04T09:31:49.343-07:00Turn the Page Tuesday (July 2009)<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51O5HQmVOcL._SL500_AA240_.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 234px;" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51O5HQmVOcL._SL500_AA240_.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />During the month of July, I began a wonderful <a href="http://oldredbarnco.blogspot.com/2009/05/quilt-along-schedule-of-events.html">sewing project</a>. (IF you enjoy sewing, I strongly recommend that you NOT go to that link. You'll get sucked in and I can't be held responsible. The sew-along is complete, however, you could follow along on your own and still create a masterpiece. That wasn't me encouraging you...or anything.)<br /><br />Sewing is like therapy for me (and many others, I'm told) and though I'm not in any particular need at the moment for some good "therapy", I always relish the time of creativity. I am an avid quilter and have quilted for many years.....enough so that I should probably have more in my personal quilt collection to account for so many years......<br /><br />At any rate, I decided to read a quilt mystery as I was working on my first-ever quilt-a-long with a <a href="http://www.flickr.com/groups/oldredbarncoquiltalong2009/pool/">wonderful group of people</a> lead by an amazing woman fully-equipped with great sewing skills. So, throughout the month, I read and sewed. Read this fun book: The Winding Ways Quilt by Jennifer Chiaverini and sewed on <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22251943@N02/3656324126/in/set-72157620430915216/">this lovely quilt top</a>.<br /><br />I was able to meet Jennifer Chiaverini many years ago at the Sinnissippi Quilt Guild in Rockford, Illinois where I attended meetings once a month. It was great to see a woman who appreciated quilts begin to make it in the world of writing. At that point, I believe she had written only one book. She now has quite a few.<br /><br />This book was interesting as the chapters broke down by character. Each chapter focused on the life on one of the individuals and revealed their background and current dilemma. Since the women were such varying ages and in some cases related to one another, their stories were quite interesting. And as naturally occurs in life, they were at many different stages of living.<br /><br />I believe I rather found it to be a comfortable book to read. It was good to see the human nature of people and how they struggle through the processes of life. It was enjoyable to imagine a quilt retreat somewhere run by women who love their roles in the art and want to encourage others to try their hand at being so very creative. The description of the mansion and grounds left me wishing for a chance to visit or work there.<br /><br />Speaking of working there.....I have worked in quilt shops. (Now I'm off on a tangent but seeing how this is MY blog : ) My mother and I first opened a quilt shop in Gretna, Louisiana, just across the Mississippi River from New Orleans. That shop was opened in 1980, when people were just thinking about quilting as a hobby and avenue for art. Everything was still quite traditional and machine work was strictly piecing. I later moved to Colorado where I had a chance to work with <a href="http://www.harriethargrave.com/">Harriet Hargrave</a> for several years. She was taking quilt-making to a new level with machine-quilting. Those were all fun years. Now I'm on my own, sewing on the same sewing table I bought in the late 70s and sewing on the same (amazing!) machine (Bernina 830) that I bought back then too. I can't count the number of hours of sheer bliss I have had on this machine and now I am teaching my youngest daughter to sew. We'll have our <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22251943@N02/3544061130/">snowball quilt</a> finished as soon as the binding is on.<br /><br />It was easy for me to get carried away in my quilting happiness since the summer offers me more opportunity for sewing than the school year.<br /><br />Look through Jennifer's current collection of books if you're interested in mysteries and quilting. The book and the sewing were great therapy and much cheaper than the pill/office-visit version with a great pay-off at the end.....something <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22251943@N02/3789347528/">wonderful to stay warm and cuddle under</a> especially if you have a <a href="http://someofakind.blogspot.com/2009/08/turn-page-tuesday.html">good read</a> in hand!<br /><img src="file:///C:/DOCUME%7E1/JANNEL%7E1/LOCALS%7E1/Temp/moz-screenshot.jpg" alt="" />jannzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04589564012978844513noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4132413415925715656.post-5935784539306336892009-08-01T07:10:00.000-07:002009-08-01T07:42:26.867-07:00A Day of QuiltsOur little town recently had a festival complete with quilts. Several of the quilts were auctioned and some were used in a bed-turning. The theme for the bed-turning was: Red and White.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/SnRSw_tERCI/AAAAAAAAAOU/rRXsGNmcIUs/s1600-h/DSC_1565.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/SnRSw_tERCI/AAAAAAAAAOU/rRXsGNmcIUs/s320/DSC_1565.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365004057792758818" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/SnRTONIMisI/AAAAAAAAAOc/oEY4Olyj-OY/s1600-h/DSC_1566.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/SnRTONIMisI/AAAAAAAAAOc/oEY4Olyj-OY/s320/DSC_1566.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365004559612414658" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/SnRSZvZHt3I/AAAAAAAAAOM/oDuupYB2n8o/s1600-h/DSC_1563.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/SnRSZvZHt3I/AAAAAAAAAOM/oDuupYB2n8o/s320/DSC_1563.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365003658277140338" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/SnRRecu14dI/AAAAAAAAAN8/Kwd1irfIDhs/s1600-h/DSC_1559.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/SnRRecu14dI/AAAAAAAAAN8/Kwd1irfIDhs/s320/DSC_1559.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365002639655690706" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/SnRR7WwfpJI/AAAAAAAAAOE/ajpPAvjlnJI/s1600-h/DSC_1560.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/SnRR7WwfpJI/AAAAAAAAAOE/ajpPAvjlnJI/s320/DSC_1560.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365003136268215442" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/SnRPqiV1tFI/AAAAAAAAANk/h8oZNR6XE0I/s1600-h/DSC_1555.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 224px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/SnRPqiV1tFI/AAAAAAAAANk/h8oZNR6XE0I/s320/DSC_1555.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365000648296608850" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/SnRQ_Z-IdQI/AAAAAAAAAN0/T_uV7N9pDus/s1600-h/DSC_1557.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/SnRQ_Z-IdQI/AAAAAAAAAN0/T_uV7N9pDus/s320/DSC_1557.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365002106338571522" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/SnRQbTLYt8I/AAAAAAAAANs/ZFP5GoZ1ziE/s1600-h/DSC_1556.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/SnRQbTLYt8I/AAAAAAAAANs/ZFP5GoZ1ziE/s320/DSC_1556.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365001486039824322" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/SnRTuZvA3CI/AAAAAAAAAOk/UXw4uLTwbR0/s1600-h/DSC_1567.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/SnRTuZvA3CI/AAAAAAAAAOk/UXw4uLTwbR0/s320/DSC_1567.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365005112752266274" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/SnRNxrEpLzI/AAAAAAAAANM/vXJf2hwwkbc/s1600-h/DSC_1528.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/SnRNxrEpLzI/AAAAAAAAANM/vXJf2hwwkbc/s320/DSC_1528.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5364998571876233010" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/SnRO04q0EkI/AAAAAAAAANc/anjuDWZGjnw/s1600-h/DSC_1531.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/SnRO04q0EkI/AAAAAAAAANc/anjuDWZGjnw/s320/DSC_1531.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5364999726577226306" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/SnROYdEtlLI/AAAAAAAAANU/dlyMeQEnIug/s1600-h/DSC_1529.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/SnROYdEtlLI/AAAAAAAAANU/dlyMeQEnIug/s320/DSC_1529.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5364999238133322930" border="0" /></a>jannzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04589564012978844513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4132413415925715656.post-9638268596166683132009-08-01T06:11:00.000-07:002009-08-01T07:04:28.195-07:00How to Decorate for a High School Graduation Party..........on a Major BudgetI decided to get creative this year for my son's high school graduation party. No pre-designed, pre-made stuff for us! We were going to forge new trails and come up with our own party decorations.<br /><br />It seemed to me that decorating with typical kid quotes would be the most fun. Disclaimer: my son did not say ALL of these things.....though he probably thought most of them, if not all. (Sorry, Big Boy) Come to think of it, I have five kids. Put together, they've probably said them all.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/SnRC4Kygz1I/AAAAAAAAANE/mYUYWQ507u4/s1600-h/DSC_1621.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/SnRC4Kygz1I/AAAAAAAAANE/mYUYWQ507u4/s320/DSC_1621.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5364986588841430866" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/SnRBhiYPNxI/AAAAAAAAAMs/ZYyq5vUH7-M/s1600-h/DSC_1618.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/SnRBhiYPNxI/AAAAAAAAAMs/ZYyq5vUH7-M/s320/DSC_1618.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5364985100525057810" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/SnRCVuT-3TI/AAAAAAAAAM8/2ld0LFAYMYE/s1600-h/DSC_1620.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/SnRCVuT-3TI/AAAAAAAAAM8/2ld0LFAYMYE/s320/DSC_1620.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5364985997081632050" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/SnRB9_S0UzI/AAAAAAAAAM0/JTpC5tgdzXI/s1600-h/DSC_1619.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/SnRB9_S0UzI/AAAAAAAAAM0/JTpC5tgdzXI/s320/DSC_1619.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5364985589323289394" border="0" /></a>Correct me if I'm wrong.....but did I see you wince as you remembered saying some of these yourself? <br /><br />Oh, good, I didn't think so. YOU would never say that!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/SnRBLKVm_RI/AAAAAAAAAMk/s9dptHh3fMw/s1600-h/DSC_1617.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/SnRBLKVm_RI/AAAAAAAAAMk/s9dptHh3fMw/s320/DSC_1617.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5364984716114459922" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/SnRAs8TtIkI/AAAAAAAAAMc/03V_TKnT-LU/s1600-h/DSC_1616.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-81b5W6d5bI/SnRAs8TtIkI/AAAAAAAAAMc/03V_TKnT-LU/s320/DSC_1616.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5364984196952302146" border="0" /></a>jannzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04589564012978844513noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4132413415925715656.post-39705945700461894222009-06-08T16:17:00.001-07:002009-06-09T06:06:02.720-07:00Strawberry Pyramid<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22251943@N02/2508475091/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2103/2508475091_1797c7d629_m.jpg" alt="" style="border: 2px solid rgb(0, 0, 0);" /></a><br /><span style="margin-top: 0px;font-size:0;" ><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22251943@N02/2508475091/">Strawberry Pyramid</a><br />Originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/22251943@N02/">jannza</a></span></div>My strawberries are growing nicely. This picture was taken last year when we first set up the bed. Runners can be encouraged to grow on lower levels. (The variety I planted was the ever-bearing strawberry.)<br /><br />My husband built the pyramid and eventually made a pvc frame which fit over it so the birds wouldn't eat all of our juicy treats! <br /><br />This year it is doing even better and has many yummy strawberries quickly approaching the ripening stage. I have more plans for these berries than I'll end up having berries, I'm sure. At least I'm guaranteed none will go to waste.<br /><br />Yikes! Waste strawberries? They send you to jail for that, don't they??jannzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04589564012978844513noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4132413415925715656.post-51340488072170390102009-06-08T14:56:00.001-07:002009-06-09T06:04:01.620-07:00Cut and Ready to Go<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22251943@N02/3586885967/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3564/3586885967_2f911c9f4d_m.jpg" alt="" style="border: 2px solid rgb(0, 0, 0);" /></a><br /><span style="margin-top: 0px;font-size:0;" ><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22251943@N02/3586885967/">Cut and Ready to Go</a><br />Originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/22251943@N02/">jannza</a></span></div>I have more than enough strips here to work on the <a href="http://www.oldredbarnco.blogspot.com/">Old Red Barn Co.</a> sew along. I'm intending to make this larger than suggested.<br /><br />I have made more quilts lately that are on the medium side and I'm looking for MORE COVERAGE! These desperately difficult Illinois winters get the best of me and I need help!<br /><br />It's exciting to cut the strips and know that the actual sewing is just around the corner. Am I the only one amazed at seeing little pieces of fabric come together to create something beautiful and comforting?jannzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04589564012978844513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4132413415925715656.post-27362954797917658222009-06-08T14:45:00.001-07:002009-06-09T06:02:14.794-07:00Meet Mrs. Responsible<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22251943@N02/3576030649/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2432/3576030649_7ea4863c1c_m.jpg" alt="" style="border: 2px solid rgb(0, 0, 0);" /></a><br /><span style="margin-top: 0px;font-size:0;" ><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22251943@N02/3576030649/">Meet Mrs. Responsible</a><br />Originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/22251943@N02/">jannz</a></span></div><br />I joined a wonderful quilt-along group and am using fabrics I already have as opposed to purchasing new ones. <a href="http://oldredbarnco.blogspot.com/">(Old Red Barn Co. Quilt Along)</a><br /><br />It isn't that I wouldn't want to go to a <a href="http://www.quiltersgeneralstore.com/">quilt shop</a> and find something delicious. I'm just trying to be "Mrs. Responsible" and do my part to use what I already have. It is so fun to buy more but it will feel good to see it all used up too.<br /><br />My mother gave me some of her favorite fabric pieces a long time ago. She'd been collecting yellows and grays for a project that never came to fruition. I thought these would be nice to use and they'd find themselves in a quilt where they belong. That makes fabrics so darn happy. : )<br /><br />Cutting is next!jannzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04589564012978844513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4132413415925715656.post-34486188398165861112009-06-08T13:35:00.001-07:002009-06-09T06:22:17.382-07:00Short and Sweet......Bittersweet<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22251943@N02/3600678376/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2466/3600678376_3009573932_m.jpg" alt="" style="border: 2px solid rgb(0, 0, 0);" /></a><br /><span style="margin-top: 0px;font-size:0;" ><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22251943@N02/3600678376/">52 Weeks of Living - Week 22: Porch Music</a><br />Originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/22251943@N02/">jannza</a></span></div>I always know when the boys aren't home. I have a cupboard full of glasses. I have so many clean glasses that they won't all fit on the shelves!<br /><br />I love having the choice of what to drink out of.<br />I love knowing the glasses are clean and not sitting dirty hither and yonder.<br />I love seeing things put away where they belong.<br /><br />I don't love missing my boys.<br />I don't love their time away from home.<br />I don't love the lack of porch music.<br />I don't love days that go by without seeing their smiling faces.<br /><br />Spoken like a true mom,<br />Mejannzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04589564012978844513noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4132413415925715656.post-23568824161471119172009-06-02T07:20:00.000-07:002009-06-02T08:49:58.725-07:00Turn the Page.....TuesdayIt's the first Tuesday of the month again. I get so excited thinking I have a little homework to be working on through the month and I picture the others diligently working away on their homework assignment too. Pages flipping, plots thickening....ooo, the juiciness of it all. More books waiting patiently for us to discover, and sadly, some worth leaving alone.<br /><br />In my normal routine excitement (can excitement be routine?), I rushed home with my monthly book from our very sweet but very accommodating library. Like a wise student I began reading early in the month. After only a few chapters I quickly realized this book WASN'T going to do it for me. And you're probably wondering which book I'm talking about. (We could have a Don't Turn That Page.....Tuesday sometime but not today! And I'm not the "boss" of this class anyway.....though she is a lovely person. : )<br /><br />Pressing on......I quickly drove myself back. This time I walked the isles trying to find something that would be newish and interesting to those of you out there who love to spend your time reading and would be willing to try a new book based on someone's (my!) recommendation.<br /><br />I picked up several and decided on:<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.titletrakk.com/Images/books/claim-of-her-own-250.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 250px; height: 382px;" src="http://www.titletrakk.com/Images/books/claim-of-her-own-250.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a> I'm still working on history, just a very different time period. Go back with me to the Gold Rush days of 1880. It's difficult to imagine just what life would have been like though we have many books and movies to help us.<br /><br />Mattie O'Keefe decides to run when her present life is too threatening and a male relationship is too dangerous. Her best option is to meet up with her brother in Deadwood, South Dakota. Bravely travelling alone, Mattie finds that even her anticipated life with Dillon, her brother, is not turning out as expected. Quickly left on her own due to an unexpected death, Mattie must now find a way to survive in this rough society or leave again into another unknown.<br /><br />Pulled in by the lure of gold, Mattie decides that working her brother's claim might be a way to survive and thrive! Dillon's claim is prosperous and she begins to believe that enough gold might see her through to better days.<br /><br />Swede, a female teamster who is hauling frieght to the Deadwood region, is moved to compassion as she understands the need to exist on will alone. She begins to help Mattie and comes to count on Mattie's help with her own family as she must continue her trips to bring in more supplies in the hopes of becoming one of Deadwood's new stores.<br /><br />One by one Mattie is taken in by a few of the town's members and made to feel a part of a community. Tom English is a kind-hearted man who respects Mattie and wants to see her succeed. Aunt Lou, a godly woman, can always be found in the one town restaurant cooking up delicious dinners as well as thought-provoking advice. And Aron Gallagher is determined to preach God's word in spite of the ridicule he receives from the town's people. As much as Mattie wants to trust people, she finds it quite difficult in light of her troubled past. In all of this, the deadly relationship of the past hovers over Mattie and threatens her again. Deadwood isn't safe from "him" and it isn't safe from disease. Both plague the town and bring havoc from which to flee.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.stephaniewhitson.com/index.htm">Stephanie Grace Whitson</a> is a delightful author. My interest in her peaked when I found that she started to become interested in writing as she taught her home-schooled children how to write. This lady has a life filled with kids, grandkids, quilts (I LOVE quilting), books, a devoted husband (sorry to put him so near the end of the list as I'm sure he really doesn't rank there) and a love for the Lord. I can't leave out the fact that she is a public speaker....love that too! We could be sisters! Well, not exactly, she doesn't even know I exist......<br /><br />Hope you'll consider reading some of her collection. She has several series to choose from and I don't think you'll be disappointed.<br /><br />I was tempted to write a non-fiction book myself this month about a very cold and wet spring that doesn't seem to want to warm up. But it would sound like I was complaining too much and truth is, I've been inspired to be a part of my first-ever quilt-a-long with the <a href="http://oldredbarnco.blogspot.com/">Old Red Barn Co.</a> I'll be blogging about that delightful fun-filled adventure soon, so soon. And I can brag a bit as I'm using fabrics from my "already-here" collection instead of supporting the economy and buying something completely delicious. (sense my responsible side speaking?) Pictures of the fabrics (and sewing progress to come) are already showing up on my <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22251943@N02/">flickr</a> account.<br /><br />For more reviews, check out <a href="http://someofakind.blogspot.com/2009/06/turn-page-tuesday.html">Some of a Kind</a> and have a wonderful time this month turning your own page. Remember to keep your brain (and body) active. The best is yet to come!<br /><br /><br /><br /><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:85%;" ></span>jannzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04589564012978844513noreply@blogger.com2